How to Do a Burned Look Stain

Distress a small area on the piece of furniture to create a textured spot that will be the base for the burn effect. Sand down an area that is about three to six inches long, depending on how large of a burned effect you want to make. Use the sandpaper to remove any existent stain or or paint in that section of the wood piece. Dig into some sections of the wood a little more than others to create a slightly uneven effect.

Dent and shape the intended burn area with a blunt object, such as the tip of a screwdriver or by hitting the area a few times with the end link of a metal chain. These blows to the surface will create that weathered and blistered wood effect. Only create dents that are about a quarter inch deep.

Mix your stain. Apply the dark stain to the indented area. Begin with a light coat over the whole surface of the aged area. Start to apply an extra coat to the crevices and grooves to create a distressed, burned look.

Dip the tip of the sponge into the wood stain. Blot off excess stain onto some extra newspaper or scrap paper. Stipple the sponge around the edge of the distressed area to create a singed effect on the area surrounding the central "burn" element. Make light, delicate strokes that are uneven. Allow the stain to dry completely.